What Am I Entitled To: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a benefit available from the Social Security Administration (SSA) for disabled individuals. In order to qualify for SSDI, you must have worked a certain number of years in a job where you paid Social Security (FICA) taxes. In addition, your last qualifying work must fall within a certain time frame in relation to the date you became disabled.

If you have not earned enough credits, have not worked in a long time or have never worked, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, benefits. SSI is a need-based program that provides monthly benefits to disabled individuals. You may also be entitled to SSI if you are elderly or blind. It is tough to qualify for SSI, however, since it has very strict asset and income limits.

Once the SSA determines your program eligibility, a medical review is performed to determine whether you meet the medical requirements for disability (a severe medical condition, expected to last longer than 12 months and limiting your ability to perform gainful work).

For consultation with a lawyer about your eligibility for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income, contact Donovan O'Connor & Dodig, LLP. We have offices in North Adams, Pittsfield and Springfield, Massachusetts, as well as in Bennington, Vermont, to serve you. You can reach us in Massachusetts at 413-346-5305, and in Vermont at 802-681-4729 or via email

All cases are handled on a contingent fee basis — you will not have to pay any attorneys' fees unless we win compensation in your case.

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